On October 12, the Chemawa Middle School hallways were filled with student chatter, laughter and excitement for the weekend ahead. Little did they know that some of their lives were about to change.
In the middle of theater class, Abigail Hall, a seventh grader, suddenly slumped in her chair. The teacher immediately called for help while another student ran to the nearest staff for help.
The school health assistant, the school principal and several campus supervisors deployed to the classroom. When they arrived they noticed that Abigail’s pulse had faded, and her breath was shallow. They started CPR while 911 was called then used the Automated External Defibrillator (AED). Soon thereafter, emergency services arrived and Abigail was rushed to the hospital, where she received further medical attention and is making a steady recovery.
“It’s every parent's worst nightmare to receive a call from the school that you need to get there fast because your child passed out and was unresponsive. A million things race through your mind. Nothing could have prepared us for what we were about to walk into that day and the journey we are now on. Abigail was in the right place at the right time,” said Sarah, Abigail’s mom. “Had she been anywhere else, she wouldn't be here today. The quick action and response from the school staff saved our girl and we can't thank them enough.”
Staff action and safety preparations were critical in this incident, demonstrating their unwavering dedication and the effectiveness of RUSD’s safety protocols, underscoring the importance of regular training and preparedness in such situations.
“There is no doubt in my mind that the quick action of the entire team gave her a second chance at life,” said Principal Clarissa Brown. “We definitely unmasked some Chemawa Superheroes. We are so proud of her recovery and look forward to her return to school.”